Game 1: Cavaliers vs Pacers, 112:121
Game 2: Cavaliers vs Pacers, 119:120
Game 3: Pacers vs Cavaliers, May 10, 7:30 AM
Game 4: Pacers vs Cavaliers, May 12, 8 AM
Regular Season Series: IND leads 3-1
Playoff Series: IND leads 2-0
Key Insights
The Cavaliers are the best offensive team in the league, ranking first with an average of 122 points per game and a scoring margin of +10.3. They are capable of scoring from all areas of the floor, ranking 8th in points in the paint—a strength that was on full display in Game 1, where they held a dominant 70–38 advantage. They also rank 2nd in the league in three-point shooting percentage, and are among the top 10 in both rebounds and assists this season.
The Indiana Pacers, meanwhile, are also a high-powered offensive team, ranking in the top 7 in scoring. They play with pace and intensity, finishing 5th in fastbreak points. They are also 3rd in the league in assists and rank inside the top 10 in both steals and blocks. The Pacers also hold the statistical edge in the first two games of the season, with a +5 advantage in total points, +11 in assists, and +9 in defensive stats, along with better efficiency in offense. They also outperformed Cleveland in Game 1 with a 53% shooting effort, while holding the Cavs to just 45.9%. The Pacers also had the upper hand from deep, connecting on 19 threes at a 52% clip while Cleveland couldn’t find their rhythm, going 9-for-38.
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Players to Watch
Cleveland Cavaliers
Donovan Mitchell
Mitchell is a proven playoff performer, scoring at least 28 points in 33 postseason games. He struggled from deep in Game 1 against the Pacers, going 1-for-11, but he had a similar cold start against the Heat before catching fire. And when it comes to the Pacers, he has been unstoppable, erupting for 33+ points in five of his last six meetings, so he should have no trouble maintaining his offensive numbers going forward.
Evan Mobley
Mobley had a career year this season, finishing first in shot-blocking and second in rebounding among players at his position. He played a crucial role in the team’s defense, earning the Defensive Player of the Year award. Offensively, he was impressive as well, ranking seventh among the league’s power forwards and third on the team in scoring, while shooting at a highly efficient 55% from the field.
Darius Garland
DG has missed their last three games with a toe injury but is expected to be back starting in Game 2. He’s had a very successful campaign this season, scoring at least 25 points 25 times in the season, including three in this month, while maintaining solid value in assists. He will also bring a much needed boost in perimeter shooting as the team’s most productive player in that area.
Indiana Pacers
Tyrese Haliburton
Haliburton has been a consistent double-double threat this playoffs, with five such performances in his last six. While he didn’t attempt much in scoring, he still finished with his ninth career playoff game with at least 20 points.
Pascal Siakam
Siakam is the team’s leading scorer in the regular season (20.2) and playoffs (19.8) and should continue to see a big offensive role moving forward. He’s also scored at least 17 points and recorded at least 7 rebounds five times against the Cavs since becoming a Pacer.
Andrew Nembhard
Nembhard was a key difference-maker in Game 1 and is expected to deliver again to boost their chances of winning the series. While he showed some inconsistency during the regular season, he consistently elevates his game in the playoffs, having scored at least 15 points in 14 career postseason appearances. He has also become a reliable threat from three, hitting 15 three-pointers at an elite percentage in four of his last five games.
Matchups to Watch
Turner vs Mobley/Allen
Both Turner and Mobley are elite interior defenders and among the best in the league in shot-blocking, and also very capable in offense. While Mobley is the stronger rebounder, Turner holds the edge in offense. The Cavaliers are also likely to involve Allen more in the offense starting in Game 2 after getting a big upper hand in inside scoring, but Turner did a good job defending him in Game 1.
Mitchell/Garland vs Nembhard/Nesmith
Mitchell and Garland are both explosive scorers who can catch fire from three. The Pacers will likely assign their best perimeter defenders—those who found success against Mitchell in Game 1—to contain them. While Nembhard and Nesmith may not completely stop Mitchell and Garland, they can certainly slow them down and make them work for every point.
DFS Tip
Haliburton is the most consistent player in this series, with a steady offensive game and rising defensive impact. On the other side, Mitchell is the clear top offensive force in this series and has consistently thrived against the Pacers. Siakam and Mobley are expected to contribute on both ends of the floor, providing valuable boosts in offense and defense. Jerome could be a solid option, though his value may dip if Garland is available. For low-cost options, Nesmith and Strus are worth considering.
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